The Great Allegheny Passage Trail is the crown jewel of the Mid-Atlantic Rail Trails. Thanks to this excellent trail and the C&O Towpath National Historic Park, we now have a 335 mile long traffic free corridor between Pittsburgh, PA and Washington, DC!
Overview Map of GAP Trail |
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Photos Along the Trail |
In December 2006, the final trail connection was completed linking Cumberland, MD to McKeesport, PA (just outside of Pittsburgh). This effectively extends the 184 mile C&O Towpath (which ends in Cumberland) an additional 150 miles. Over the next few years, additional segments will be added in the Pittsburgh area so that you can eventually bicycle from downtown Washington, DC right into downtown Pittsburgh.
Much of the trail follows the abandoned right-of-way originally used by the Western Maryland Railway. This route offers some really wonderful views as it cuts through the rugged mountainous terrain of Pennsylvania's Allegheny Highlands. Along the way, you will encounter several points of interest including, crystal clear mountain streams, a 1000 foot long trestle, numerous tunnels (including the monster Mount Savage Tunnel), and some really great white water rapids.
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Related Links
- Official Site: The Great Allegheny Passage.
- Biking Guide to the C&O Towpath